The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office claims it has apprehended an organized organization responsible for a recent spate of construction material thefts.
Over the previous two months, investigators from the Crime Reduction Unit (CRU), along with detectives from the East and South Property Crimes Divisions, have been tracking down a group that was quietly—but efficiently—stealing from construction sites throughout the county.
According to deputies, this was not your typical smash-and-grab. The accused were executing a coordinated operation, complete with lookout vehicles known as “spotters” that allegedly drove recklessly to distract law enforcement while the actual robberies were taking place. Investigators also identified two key vehicles used to transport the stolen items.
With monitoring in place, deputies say they connected the suspects to multiple Harris County businesses that were purchasing the stolen products.
Deputies observed the gang entering Montgomery County and heading to the Mavera community at SH 242 and FM 1314 early on Monday, April 22. Around 3:00 a.m., they say the suspects loaded up roughly $3,500 in Hardi plank siding and trim from a Juniper Blossom Bend home.
But they didn’t get very far.
Patrol units and CRU deputies worked together to stop the stolen van and a spotter vehicle before they could leave the neighborhood.
Four guys, Adair Texis, 24, Darry Reyes, 20, Jesus Penaloza, 23, and Lazaro Rondon, 42, all of Houston, were arrested and charged with Burglary of a Building.
During interrogation, the suspects reportedly admitted to stealing from multiple locations, including not only building materials but also appliances.
The investigation is still underway, and deputies say more charges might be filed soon.